According to police, Democratic Party Representative Lee Jae Myung's life was most likely spared by his stiff shirt collar when an assailant attacked him with a knife last week.

In a report by Korea JoongAng Daily, a 67-year-old suspect identified by his surname Kim, was motivated by political beliefs to prevent Lee Jae Myung from becoming president. The Busan Metropolitan Police Agency has since forwarded Kim's case to the prosecution on charges of attempted murder. Representative Lee sustained a 1.4-centimeter wound on his neck but fortunately survived following surgery. Police emphasized that if the knife had not initially struck Lee's collar, the consequences could have been fatal.



Kim, who was apprehended at the scene, expressed his concerns over potential political consequences should Lee assume the presidency. Representative Lee, who narrowly missed victory in the 2022 presidential election, is anticipated to make another run for the position.

The police discovered an eight-page statement by Kim, which detailed his plans and expressed his frustration with the perceived delays in Lee's trials. Additionally, an acquaintance of Kim, who was initially suspected of aiding and abetting, was found to be involved in distributing copies of Kim's statement.

Investigations revealed Kim acted alone, purchasing an 18-centimeter knife online, sharpening it, and concealing it during multiple encounters with Lee since June 2023. Kim had been careful to avoid detection, using cash for transactions and removing SIM and SD cards from his phone. The suspect also confessed to joining the Democratic Party last year with ulterior motives, expressing dissatisfaction with Representative Lee Jae Myung. He aimed to monitor the representative's schedule closely, hinting at premeditation for the attack.

Police released details of Kim's preparations and the photo of Representative Lee's torn shirt collar, highlighting how it likely saved his life.

Apologizing to the public, Kim was escorted to the Busan District Prosecutors' Office. Police, not disclosing Kim's political affiliation or identity under the Political Parties Act, cited legal conditions for non-disclosure.